Easy One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Dinner Recipes

If you’re looking for a delicious, hassle-free meal that brings fresh flavors to your dinner table, this One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Dinner is exactly what you need. This recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant lemon, and aromatic basil all cooked together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re juggling a busy weeknight or simply want a flavorful meal without fuss, this simple, fresh, and colorful dish is a true winner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Everything cooks in one pan, making this dish perfect for busy evenings with minimal cleanup.
• Fresh Flavors: The brightness of lemon and herbal notes of basil elevate the juicy chicken perfectly.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Lean protein paired with fresh herbs and a squeeze of citrus keeps it light and wholesome.
• Versatile: It’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences.
• Impressively Elegant: This recipe looks and tastes gourmet but comes together with simple ingredients and steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Dinner lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to contribute a distinct layer of flavor and texture. From juicy chicken to fresh basil, each component plays a crucial role in making this dinner a crowd-pleaser.

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender, lean protein cooks quickly and absorbs all the flavors.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Adds a sweet, slightly peppery herbaceous aroma that complements the citrus beautifully.
• Lemon Juice and Zest: Provides bright acidity that balances the richness of the chicken and butter.
• Garlic Cloves: Infuse the dish with savory depth and warmth.
• Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken, delivering a lovely golden crust.
• Butter: Adds creaminess and richness to the pan sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Creates a flavorful base for the sauce, keeping everything moist and tender.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to bring out the best tastes of all ingredients.
• Cherry Tomatoes (optional): Add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color if you like.

Variations for One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Dinner

Feel free to tweak this One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Dinner to suit your taste buds, dietary needs, or pantry options. The recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so get creative and make it your own.

• Protein Swap: Use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat and richer flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with large portobello mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based meal.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Different Herbs: Swap basil for fresh thyme or rosemary to change up the aroma and flavor profile.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in zucchini slices, bell peppers, or green beans for more texture and nutrients.

How to Make One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Dinner

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to build the foundation of flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Basil Sauce

Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same pan. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned, about 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and zest, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

Step 4: Simmer with Basil and Tomatoes

Return the chicken to the skillet. Add cherry tomatoes and torn basil leaves over the top. Cover and cook for another 7-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce reduces slightly.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

Give everything a gentle stir to combine flavors and spoon sauce over the chicken. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Dinner

• Dry the Chicken First: Ensures a better sear and prevents steaming in the pan.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give chicken enough space to brown nicely, or work in batches.
• Use Fresh Lemon and Basil: Pack more vibrant, authentic flavor than dried equivalents.
• Rest the Chicken: Letting it rest a few minutes after cooking keeps juices locked in and tender.
• Scrape Pan Bits: Those caramelized bits add incredible depth to your sauce, so don’t skip scraping them up!

How to Serve One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Dinner

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves and thin lemon slices brighten the presentation and add extra zest. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can also add a touch of savory richness.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or light pasta to soak up the buttery lemon sauce. For extra greens, toss a simple arugula salad or steamed asparagus on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve directly in the skillet for rustic charm, or plate the chicken over a bed of quinoa or couscous with a drizzle of the pan sauce for a restaurant-worthy look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Store the cooled chicken with sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to refresh the sauce as needed.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts, but cooking time will increase and you may want to cover the pan to ensure the chicken cooks through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for gluten-sensitive eaters.

What can I substitute for fresh basil if I don’t have any?

Dried basil can be used in a pinch, though adding it earlier in the cooking process helps release its flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also work as alternatives.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken with lemon and herbs a few hours ahead to boost flavor, but it’s best cooked fresh for the best texture and taste.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer ensures perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Dinner is a fantastic way to enjoy a fresh, vibrant, and comforting meal without the fuss. Its simplicity and bright flavors make it a reliable favorite that you’ll want to add to your weekly rotation. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the ease of one-pan cooking combined with the irresistible tang of lemon and aromatic basil!

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